Which intervention involves presenting several high-probability requests before a low-probability request?

The high-probability instructional sequence is a behavior management strategy that involves presenting several requests or tasks that the individual is likely to comply with before introducing a request that they are less likely to follow through on. The rationale behind this approach is that by establishing a pattern of success with easy or preferred tasks, the individual increases their likelihood of complying with a more challenging request that follows.

This intervention takes advantage of the concept of establishing momentum—when a person successfully completes multiple requests, their confidence and willingness to engage in subsequent requests can increase. This technique is particularly effective in situations where compliance may be low or when trying to encourage a behavior that the individual typically resists. The sequence starts with requests that are high-probability, meaning they have a higher chance of being followed, thereby setting a positive tone and increasing engagement for the next, less preferred but necessary task.